Top 10 MUST VISIT Offbeat Places in Himachal Pradesh in 2023

Himachal Pradesh is one of India’s most lauded and admired tourist destinations—a land that warms the mind and spirit. The state draws tourists from far and wide to spend wonderful vacations, whose memories adhere to for a lifetime, nestled between North India’s snow-capped Himalayan Mountains. Visitors are drawn to the area’s majestic hills, pristine valleys, historic sites, ancient temples, sparkling lakes, and other natural wonders in the tranquil setting. All kinds of travellers can sate their wanderlust with a visit to this lovely Pradesh’s tourist spots. Several offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh are hidden gems and offer a unique experience to travellers.

Here we have compiled a list of the top 10 must-visit offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh in 2023. Let’s discuss that.

Top 10 MUST-VISIT Offbeat Places in Himachal Pradesh in 2023

#1. Tirthan Valley

Tirthan Valley is a picturesque and offbeat destination located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. The Tirthan Valley is surrounded by lush green forests, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear rivers. The valley is known for its pristine beauty and breathtaking landscapes that offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Tirthan Valley is a hub for adventure activities such as trekking, fishing, camping, and river rafting. The valley offers a glimpse into the local way of life and culture, making it an excellent destination for cultural immersion. Overall, Tirthan Valley is a beautiful and offbeat destination in Himachal Pradesh, offering a unique blend of scenic beauty, adventure activities, local culture, and sustainable tourism practices. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful and authentic travel experience in the lap of nature.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Tirthan valley is Summer (April to June). This is the peak season for Tirthan Valley, with pleasant weather and temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The valley is lush and green during this time, making it perfect for trekking, camping, and fishing.

#2. Malana

One of India’s most picturesque villages is Malana. There are many tales about this stunning location. It is renowned for its scenic beauty and extensive cultural legacy, and it is located at an elevation of 2,652 metres above sea level.

The most intriguing fact about this unusual place is that it is thought that the people who reside there are the direct descendants of the great Alexander. Additionally, this location has administrative laws and rules that closely resemble the Greek management style, culture, social setting, and idea of purity. Apart from its rich culture and history, Malana is also known for its scenic beauty. The village is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, and pristine valleys. The landscape is perfect for trekking and hiking, and several trekking routes lead to nearby villages and scenic spots.

Overall, the beauty of Malana lies in its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. It is an offbeat destination that offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Himalayas and is a must-visit for anyone who is looking for an authentic and immersive travel experience.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Malana is from March to June and September to November. The temperature in these months varies from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the weather is pleasant. The skies are clear, and you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.

#3 Chitkul

Chitkul is a small village located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is known for its scenic beauty and is often referred to as the last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibetan border. This beautiful village is amid the Himalayan mountains and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The Baspa River flows through the village, adding to its natural beauty. The village is also home to many apple orchards and green fields. Chitkul is a popular destination for trekkers, and many trekking routes originate from the village.

The most popular trek is the Kinnaur Kailash trek, which takes you through some of the most scenic parts of the Himalayas. Besides this, Chitkul offers a range of adventure activities such as river rafting, fishing, and camping. In general, Chitkul is a great option if you’re looking for a place to escape the crowds and commercialization of popular tourist locations. So, get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and prepare your bags to travel to this hidden gem in the Himalayas!

Best time to visit Chitkul:

The summer months, from April to June, are the most popular time to visit Chitkul as the weather is pleasant, and the temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C. During this time, the snow starts melting, and the greenery is in full bloom, making it an ideal time for trekking and exploring the village’s scenic beauty.

#4. Kalpa

Kalpa is a small, offbeat town located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated at an altitude of 2,960 meters above sea level and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush green forests, and apple orchards. Kalpa is known for its serene beauty, scenic landscapes, and ancient temples. It is a perfect destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some peace and tranquillity. One of the main attractions of Kalpa is the majestic Kinnaur Kailash, a peak that is revered by the locals as the abode of Lord Shiva. The peak is visible from almost every part of Kalpa and is a sight to behold.

Kalpa is also known for its apple orchards, which produce some of the best-quality apples in the region. The best time to visit Kalpa is during the apple harvest season, which is from September to October. During this time, the entire town is covered in a sea of red and green apples, and the air is filled with the sweet aroma of ripe fruit. Apart from these attractions, Kalpa also offers some excellent trekking opportunities.

Kalpa Overall

Overall, Kalpa is a hidden gem in the state of Himachal Pradesh, and it is an excellent offbeat destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and tranquillity. With its scenic beauty, ancient temples, and apple orchards, Kalpa is an excellent place to unwind and rejuvenate your mind and body.

Best time to visit Kalpa:

The best time to explore Kalpa is during the summer months of April to June when the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges from 8°C to 22°C. The apple orchards are in full blossom and the snow is starting to melt at this time, creating a breathtaking view of the valley.

#5. Barot

Barot is a beautiful and offbeat destination located in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. It is a serene and peaceful location that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a wide range of adventure activities to explore. Barot is surrounded by lush green forests and hills, and the Uhl River flows through the valley. art is a hidden gem that is still unexplored by many tourists. This makes it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and peace away from the crowds of popular tourist spots. The valley offers several trekking routes that lead to scenic locations like the Bada Bhangal, Rajgundha and Kullu. Camping in Barot is also a unique experience as the valley is surrounded by dense forests and offers a tranquil environment.

The Uhl River that flows through the valley is home to a variety of fish species, making it an ideal location for fishing enthusiasts. Barot is also home to the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to several endangered species like the Himalayan black bear, leopard, and barking deer. Overall, Barot is a beautiful and offbeat destination in Himachal Pradesh that offers a unique experience to visitors.

Best time to visit Barot:

The best time to visit Barot is between March to June and between October to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the temperature ranges between 10°C to 25°C. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and hiking.

#6. Sangla Valley

Sangla Valley is a hidden gem in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is an offbeat destination that offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, and apple orchards. The valley is also known for its apple orchards, which add to the beauty of the place. Sangla Valley is home to the Kinnauri people who have a unique culture and way of life. A valley is a great place for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can go trekking, camping, and mountain biking in the valley. Several trekking trails in the area lead to stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

The Kinnauri cuisine is another highlight of Sangla Valley. The food is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and is known for its unique flavours. Some of the popular dishes in the valley include siddu, thump and chilta.

Overall, Sangla Valley is a beautiful offbeat place to visit in Himachal Pradesh. It offers a unique cultural experience, stunning natural beauty, adventure activities, delicious foods and a beautiful experience for a lifetime.

Best time to visit Sangla valley:

Generally, the peak tourist season in Sangla Valley is from April to June and from September to November. These months offer pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it a great time to explore the valley and indulge in adventure activities like trekking, camping, and rock climbing.

#7. Prashar Lake

Prashar Lake is another beautiful offbeat destination located in Himachal Pradesh, India. The lake is situated at an altitude of 2,730 meters above sea level and is surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains and lush green forests. The beauty of Prashar Lake lies in its serene and untouched surroundings. The lake is crystal clear and reflects the surrounding mountains, making for a stunning sight. Apart from the natural beauty, the area is rich in culture and history. One of the most unique features of Prashar Lake is the floating island in the centre of the lake. The island is a circular patch of land that floats on the water’s surface and moves around the lake’s perimeter. The island’s origin is a mystery, but it adds to the lake’s mystical and otherworldly charm.

Overall, Prashar Lake is a hidden gem in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty of nature and the rich culture of the region in a peaceful and tranquil setting.

Best time to visit Prashar Lake:

The best time to visit Prashar Lake is during the summer months of April to June and the autumn months of September to November. The temperature during this time ranges from 15°C to 25°C during the day, and it drops to 5°C to 10°C at night. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the lake.

#8. McLeod Ganj

McLeod Ganj, located in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is a beautiful offbeat destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, spiritualism, and adventure. This place is nestled amidst the lush green mountains of the Dhauladhar range, offering stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and the Kangra Valley. The views are particularly breathtaking at sunrise and sunset. Besides these, McLeod Ganj has a vibrant food scene, with a range of eateries offering local Himachali and Tibetan cuisine, as well as international cuisine. Mcleod Ganj has it all, from the breathtaking scenery to the colourful monasteries, upscale cafés, and nerve-wracking adventure activities. In addition to a little excitement, camping in Mcleod Ganj is a very tranquil experience. The evening bonfire will make the exercise more enjoyable.

If you are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature, McLeod Ganj is an excellent choice.

Best time to visit Mcleod Ganj:

The ideal time to visit McLeod Ganj is from March to June when the weather is pleasant, and the temperature ranges between 10°C to 25°C. The summer season is perfect for trekking, camping, and outdoor activities.

#9. Spiti valley

Spiti Valley is a breathtakingly beautiful and offbeat destination in Himachal Pradesh. It is a high-altitude desert that is surrounded by the majestic Himalayas and is home to stunning landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and a variety of flora and fauna. Spiti Valley is considered one of the most beautiful offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh. Spiti Valley is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, including snow-capped mountains, rugged terrain, crystal-clear lakes, and winding rivers. The valley is also dotted with ancient monasteries, which add to its charm and beauty.

The valley is home to several Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, which offer a glimpse into the region’s unique history and traditions. Visitors to the valley can also see a variety of birds, including the Himalayan snowcock and the golden eagle. Besides these, Spiti Valley is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts, with activities such as trekking, mountaineering, and camping available.

Overall, Spiti Valley is a beautiful and unique destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty, culture, and adventure of the Himalayas in a truly unforgettable way.

Best time to visit Spiti Valley:

The best time to explore Spiti Valley is most likely from April to May. One of the main reasons for visiting Spiti Valley between April and May is the nice weather. This time of year is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and sightseeing due to the mild temperatures and sunny days.

#10. Karsog Valley

Karsog valley is another hidden gem located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is a relatively lesser-known destination, making it perfect for those who are looking to explore an offbeat location. The valley is situated at an altitude of around 1,400 meters and is surrounded by lush green forests and snow-capped peaks, making it a breathtakingly beautiful destination. One of the main attractions of Karsog valley is its natural beauty. The valley is home to numerous streams, waterfalls, and forests that are perfect for nature lovers. The valley is also dotted with tiny hamlets and towns that provide a glimpse into the way of life in the area. The locals are warm and friendly and are always happy to share their culture and traditions with visitors. Another major attraction of Karsog valley is its rich cultural heritage.

Overall, karsog valley is an ideal offbeat place to visit if you want to take a break from your busy life and want to relax in Nature’s lap.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Karsog valley is during the summer months of March to June and in the autumn months of September to November. During these periods, the weather is pleasant and the temperatures are mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, and sightseeing.

Conclusion

These are the Top 10 MUST VISIT Offbeat Places in Himachal Pradesh in 2023. Himachal Pradesh offers several offbeat destinations that are hidden gems and offer a unique experience to travellers. These destinations are perfect for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those who want to explore the culture and heritage of Himachal Pradesh. If you love to travel, then must visit these offbeat places of Himachal Pradesh. You will fall in love with Himachal Pradesh.

FAQs:

Q. Which is the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh?

A. The best time to visit Himachal Pradesh depends on what activities and experiences you are looking for. For outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and adventure sports, the best time to visit is during the summer months from April to June when the weather is pleasant and the snow has melted.

Q. Why should one visit Himachal Pradesh?

A. Himachal Pradesh continues to be one of the finest offbeat locations for its pristine natural beauty, historic monasteries and temples, adventure activities, distinctive art and craft, mouth-watering cuisine, dance and music, and honeymoon destinations. As a result, if you enjoy travelling, you must go to Himachal Pradesh.